Posting Bail at Dallas County Jail
Dallas County is one of the largest counties in Texas, and its jail system at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center processes thousands of bookings each month. If someone you care about has been arrested in Dallas, here's everything you need to know about getting them released on bail.
Lew Sterrett Justice Center
The Frank Crowley Courts Building and the Lew Sterrett Justice Center make up the main criminal justice complex in Dallas County, located at 111 W. Commerce Street. This facility handles all bookings for Dallas County arrests.
How Bail Works in Dallas County
- Arrest and booking: After arrest, the defendant is transported to the Lew Sterrett Justice Center for booking.
- Magistrate hearing: A magistrate reviews the charges and sets bail, typically within 24-48 hours. For many misdemeanors, a bail schedule provides preset amounts.
- Contact a bondsman: Dallas bail bondsmen charge 10% of the bail amount. Available 24/7, they can begin the process as soon as bail is set.
- Post the bond: The bondsman posts the bond at the jail. You'll need to provide the defendant's full name, booking number, and co-signer information.
- Release: Dallas County's release process takes 8-16 hours after the bond is posted. Weekend and holiday arrests take longer.
Dallas County Bail Amounts
- Class C misdemeanor: $200 — $500
- Class B misdemeanor (DWI): $1,500 — $5,000
- Class A misdemeanor: $3,000 — $10,000
- State jail felony: $5,000 — $25,000
- Third-degree felony: $10,000 — $50,000
- Second-degree felony: $25,000 — $100,000
- First-degree felony: $50,000 — $500,000+
Personal Bonds in Dallas County
Dallas County also offers personal bonds (PR bonds) through the Dallas County Pretrial Services department. Eligible defendants may be released without paying bail if they meet certain criteria. Pretrial services conducts an interview and risk assessment to determine eligibility. Low-risk, non-violent offenders with community ties are the most likely candidates for personal bonds.
Choosing a Dallas Bail Bondsman
When selecting a bail bondsman in Dallas, look for a company that is licensed by the Texas Department of Insurance, available 24/7, and experienced with Dallas County procedures. Many bondsmen are located near the Lew Sterrett Justice Center for quick service. Payment plans are commonly available for larger bail amounts.
Find a trusted Dallas bail bondsman at BailBondFinders.com.